Corneal Transplantation
Restoring Clarity with Expert, Consultant-Led Care
If your vision is affected by corneal disease, scarring, or thinning, a corneal transplant may offer the opportunity to regain clarity, reduce pain, and protect long-term eye health.
At our specialist private clinic, we provide advanced corneal transplantation techniques — from full-thickness grafts to precise, partial-layer procedures — all led by a consultant corneal specialist.
What Is Corneal Transplantation?
The cornea is the clear, curved window at the front of your eye. If it becomes cloudy, misshapen or damaged, light cannot pass through properly — causing blurred or distorted vision.
A corneal transplant (keratoplasty) involves removing the damaged corneal tissue and replacing it with healthy donor tissue. Depending on your condition, we offer:
Full-Thickness Corneal Transplant (Penetrating Keratoplasty)
✅ Used when all layers of the cornea are affected
✅ Suitable for deep scarring or advanced disease
Partial-Thickness / Lamellar Transplant
- DALK (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty) – preserves inner corneal layers
- DSAEK / DMEK – selective inner layer replacement (for endothelial failure, e.g., Fuchs’ dystrophy)
✅ Less invasive
✅ Quicker recovery
✅ Reduced risk of rejection
Conditions That May Require Corneal Transplant
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Keratoconus (progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea)
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Fuchs’ Endothelial Dystrophy
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Corneal scarring from infection or injury
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Corneal failure following previous surgery
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Degenerative conditions or corneal clouding
Why Choose Our Clinic for Corneal Transplantation?
✅ Consultant-Led from Start to Finish
Your care is led by a fellowship-trained corneal surgeon with years of experience in both NHS and private complex eye surgery.
✅ Tailored Surgical Approach
We offer customised treatment planning based on the latest diagnostic imaging — ensuring the most suitable technique for your condition.
✅ Trusted Tissue Source
We work with licensed UK eye banks to source high-quality, donor-matched corneal tissue for optimal outcomes.
✅ Continuity of Care
You’ll be seen by the same consultant throughout — from first appointment through surgery to aftercare.
✅ Private Appointments, No Waiting Lists
Choose appointment times that suit you. No delays, no uncertainty.
What to Expect Before, During & After Surgery
1. Comprehensive Preoperative Assessment
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Corneal scans
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Visual testing
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Health screening
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Thorough consultation to explore risks, benefits, and expectations
2. The Procedure
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Typically performed under local anaesthetic with sedation
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Duration: approx. 45–90 minutes, depending on the technique
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Often completed as a day case
3. Recovery & Follow-Up
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Gradual visual improvement over several weeks or months
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Use of eye drops and protective shields
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Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and reduce the risk of rejection
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Is corneal transplantation safe?
Yes. While all surgery carries risk, corneal transplantation is a well-established procedure with a strong safety record. We use modern techniques to minimise complications and rejection.
How long does it take to recover?
Vision usually begins to improve over several weeks. Full recovery and stabilisation may take several months depending on the technique used.
Will I need glasses or contact lenses afterwards?
Possibly, especially in full-thickness transplants where astigmatism is common. However, vision is usually significantly clearer than before surgery.
What’s the risk of rejection?
Rejection is rare but possible. You’ll be closely monitored and prescribed drops to reduce this risk. If detected early, rejection can usually be reversed.
Can both eyes be treated?
Yes — if both corneas are affected, we typically treat one eye at a time, with appropriate spacing between procedures.
Is private corneal transplantation available to NHS patients?
Yes — many patients choose private care for faster access, continuity with a consultant, and more flexible aftercare options.
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You don’t need to live with poor vision
Achieve clear vision in 3 easy steps
1
Get in touch
Waiting for treatment is frustrating. I can help you avoid the long waiting lists and start living with better vision today. Contact us and book an appointment today.
2
We’ll meet
At your appointment, I’ll answer your questions and give you a personalised recommendation based on your needs and lifestyle.
3
Start living
Why trust me with your eyes?
I won’t make you wait.
I understand that waiting for surgery is frustrating. That’s why I help you beat the long treatment waitlists so you can get the treatment you need.
You’re always my priority.
I’ll be with you every step of the way to help you take the next step to improve your life.
You’re an individual, not a number.
You’ll get a personalised recommendation from me based on your needs and lifestyle.